Effects of destroying juxtaposed mussel-dominated and coralline algal communities at Umdoni Park, Natal coast, South Africa

Abstract

An experiment was conducted to determine the recruitment pattern of species into disturbed areas of the lower littoral zone. Plots were cleared to rock substratum in two juxtaposing communities, one dominated by the mussel Perna perna (Linn.) and the other by foliose and crustose coralline algae (Rhodophyceae). Subsequent changes in cover were monitored for one year. Undisturbed sectors of these two communities were also monitored for comparative purposes. Evaluations were made by comparing species similarity indices and biomass measures. Within five months all cleared plots had recruited a richer species composition and a biomass comparable to that of an undisturbed community dominated by coralline algae. The mussel Perna perna, during the experiment and up to eight years later, never returned to numerical dominance in the experimental plots. The consequences of this for the welfare of mussel beds are discussed.